tropical climates.
The Natives themselves, as well as many of the foreign residents assert, that so far as March is concerned, it has never been known as so sickly a period as it has hitherto been. Though the past few months have proved all along this part of the Coast of China and yet Chusan - which was notorious for its unhealthiness in 1840 - has been very healthy this year. I may add, that I observe from the Newspapers, that several of the Military Stations in India, which have always been considered to possess a very good (though hot) climate, have been extremely sickly during the past rainy weather, which is a proof, that the reason has been irregular and uncongenial elsewhere as well as in China.
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I have felt it to be right to offer these remarks - which are the result of my personal anxious observation - for the information and perhaps satisfaction, of Her Majesty's Government, and I will only add, that I indulge the hope, that, under God's Blessing, after the creation of comfortable and substantial houses and barracks, and the completion of other arrangements now in progress for securing to this Colony the advantages of proper draining and cleanliness, it will not be more likely to be unhealthy than other places similarly situated, and that the recent severe visitation will be happily demonstrated to be no criterion of the future.
I have the honor to be,
My Lord,
Your Most obedient humble servant,